6 Kid-Friendly Activities in Dublin

A capital city that is still manageable in size, Dublin is the perfect stop for families traveling with children. From a charming waterfront, to public parks and plenty of museums, the city is full of kid-friendly activities.

Be sure to pack some sturdy wellingtons because the wet Irish weather can lead to plenty of puddle splashing opportunities. However, the city has plenty of indoor and outdoor options that are a delight for young visitors regardless of the climate, so you'll spend plenty of time outside your Dublin hotel.

Here are 6 kid-friendly destinations to explore on your next trip to Dublin:

St. Stephen's Green

Conveniently located in the heart of the city just off Grafton Street, St. Stephen's Green is one of Dublin's most beloved public parks. There are garden areas filled with manicured greens, a pond with ducks, and (most importantly) a large playground that is divided into areas for younger and older kids. The open is space is perfect for burning off energy when sightseeing becomes a bit too much for the littlest travellers.

Imaginosity

Travelling with tiny tots? Imaginosity (The Plaza, Beacon South Quarter) is Dublin's interactive children's museum. Perfect for younger children (up to about age 9) on a rainy day, the museum is full of pieces meant to be touched, pulled, climbed and built. The 19 educational exhibits include a puppet theatre, play construction zone, and even a doctor's office to learn about the body. The eco-inspired tree house is one of the most popular exhibits, where kids can hop on mushrooms and search for fairies. Stop for lunch in the museum's Mad Hatter Café to round out the visit with a few snacks.

The Mummies of St. Michan's Church

For young ones interested in creepy crawlies and scary tales, plan a visit to St. Michan's Church (Church St, Arran Quay). The historic church dates back to 1085 and the main chapel is still well preserved. The most interesting part of the property, however, is located outside near a few headstones that make up the church's small graveyard. A guide will unlock two metal doors that lead down a steep staircase and into a simple crypt. The accidental mummies of St. Michan's can be found in their final underground resting place. The mummies are housed in family crypts, and some are visible through the bars, so it is best for brave kids who are entertained by the best ghost stories.

Dublinia

When wet weather hits, older kids will be enthralled Viking history at the Dublinia exhibit at Christ Church. The space focuses on the history of the city, from the time of the Vikings through the Middle Ages. Visitors can try on Viking clothes and visit a recreation of a typical home of the time to see how the Vikings once lived. After exploring the museum, families can climb the original medieval tower that is onsite, and scale the 96 stairs to reach a viewpoint that looks out over the modern city.

Dublin Zoo

Located inside Phoenix Park, the Dublin Zoo is one of the most popular stops for families visiting the Irish capital. The zoo first opened in 1831 and carries on the modern mission of helping to conserve endangered species. There is a playground near the elephant enclosure, as well as Pets Corner where young visitors can get up close to some of the tamest zoo residents.

Phoenix Park

Dublin's largest park has more than just a zoo to keep kids entertained. The visitor's centre also hosts various weekend workshops for kids 6-12 years of age. The Sunday workshops bring history to life with fun crafts, but the centre also has a free self-guided museum that is free every day of the week. Out in the park, kids can run and leap, look out for deer sightings and even hire bikes to explore more of the extensive trails with the whole family.

Where to Stay in Dublin

Clayton Hotel Dublin Airport places guests a 7-minute drive or shuttle ride from the terminals. It's a 20 minute cab journey to visit the delights of Dublin's city center or famous coastal villages of Howth and Malahide.

Situated near the airport, this eco-friendly hotel is within a 15-minute walk of Croke Park, Garden of Remembrance, and James Joyce Cultural Centre. Parnell Square and Dublin Writers Museum are also within 15 minutes.

Located in City Centre North, this romantic hotel is within a 5-minute walk of Rotunda Hospital, Garden of Remembrance, and Parnell Square. Ha' Penny Bridge and General Post Office are also within 10 minutes.

Located in Dublin's city centre, 100 metres from the Dublin Writers Museum and a short walk away from the bustling shops of O'Connell Street. Henry Street, Temple Bar, and the Trinity College are also close at hand. Maldron Hotel Parnell Square is the perfect base for a Dublin city break.

Within a 5-minute walk of Henry Street shops and the James Joyce Centre, Jurys Inn Dublin Parnell Street is less than 1 km (0.6 mi) from Temple Bar, Abbey Theatre, General Post Office, and Trinity College.

Located across from Dublin’s 3Arena, the Gibson hotel, an Ascend Hotel Collection® Member, is a 10-minute walk from Convention Centre Dublin. Guests can drive 15 minutes to London Castle and Trinity College, and 20 minutes to Dublin Zoo. Dublin Airport is a 15-minute drive from the hotel.

This family-friendly Dublin hotel is located in the historical district, steps from Parnell Square, Garden of Remembrance, and Dublin Writers Museum. James Joyce Cultural Centre and General Post Office are also within 10 minutes.

This modern hotel overlooks the Bord Gais Energy Theatre and is 50 meters from the River Liffey on the edge of Sir John Rogerson's Quay. Dublin City Center, Croke Park, and the 3Arena are within 2 km (1 mi).

With a free 24-hour airport shuttle, Radisson Blu Hotel, Dublin Airport is an ideal traveling base. It's a 10-minute drive to 3Arena, and 20 minutes to Dublin city center. Phoenix Park, home to the President's Mansion and Dublin Zoo, is 15 minutes west.

Ashling Hotel Dublin is on the stately north bank of the River Liffey, a 5-minute walk from Heuston Station, and a 5-minute tram ride from the city center. Guests can easily walk to many of Dublin's top attractions, from the Guinness Storehouse to the 11th-century Christchurch Cathedral.

Housed in a 19th-century mansion set in landscaped gardens, Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge is a 5-minute walk from RDS Main Arena and 10 minutes by train from downtown Dublin. Aviva Stadium is a 10-minute walk from the hotel, Guinness Storehouse a 15-minute drive.

Built in 1828 and in 4 acres of gardens overlooking Dublin Bay, 500 meters from Dun Laoghaire Pier and the Maritime Museum, this historic hotel was renovated in 2007. Located at 1.6 miles is the Royal Irish Yacht Club. The Peoples Park is 2 miles away.

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